Average Ratings

A835 - Still a great phone even on US carriers.

Three months ago I bought this phone off eBay. I purchased an "unlocked" version of the phone from a student in England. The phone was promised to work on US networks.

I did some research and found a few US providers who could put service on the phone. I chose T-Mobile, and signed up for a 1 year contract. T-Mobile gave me a SIM card which popped right into the phone.

After a little trouble setting up the network settings, just about everything worked great.

I am unable to use the "Quick Map" GPS mapping feature, as well as the "Video Calling" feature (I'm sure it works, but who would I call?). All of the other features are awesome though.

The still/video cameras work great, and take nice 640x480 pictures. I love having the zoom feature also. My favorite feature would probably be the built in Mp3 player. With 64mb of internal memory, the phone can easily hold an entire 80min CD at 96kbps bitrate (with room to spare).

I also purchased "Bluetrek G2" wireless headset. The phone easily mated with the headset, and I have had no problems with it. Because the phone is a little large, the headset is great for driving or just walking around.

The Bluetooth is also helpful for connecting to my PC. I can easily transfer files between the PC and phone just by opening the included Motorola "mobile PhoneTools" software. I have found that transfer speeds are a little slow, but it gets the job done.

A final feature I enjoy about the phone is it's ability to work as a wireless modem. Using the Bluetooth or USB cable, I have been able to dial the internet from my Laptop PC. Service with T-Mobile has been unstable lately, but the fact is, the hardware works great.

Not sure what else to say about the phone, other than the fact that EVERYONE who sees it has to ask about it.

Packed with features, though not too useful for the US market

Overall this is a great phone. My biggest complaint is the inability to change the left softkey from the FASTMENU to anything else. Aside from that small complaint, the ringer is LOUD! I have yet to find a ringtone that isn't audible in even fairly loud surroundings.

T9 text seems better than on previous Moto phones, and the battery life is very good. The camera leaves a little to be desired, but it's a phone first and foremost.

If you can get your hands on one of these I think you will be pleasantly surprised at how well it works.